E-Connections

July 2008

 1.  Monthly Directory Up-Date

July 1, 2008

Greetings! We hope that by now all of you have received your new Conference Directory. If not, complimentary copies are available to pick up at the Conference Office, or you can mail a check for $3 to cover shipping and handling and we will mail you a copy.

Included in the Directory that was mailed out was a sheet for corrections. Our thanks to those who have made us aware of changes that need to be made. We will compile all the changes we receive and each month we will send out an E-Connection like this one with the changes for you to make in your Directory. An up-dated Directory will be mailed each January for the next several years.

Please thank our advertisers for making the Directory possible and consider advertising your service in up-coming editions.

CORRECTIONS TO THE DIRECTORY: PLEASE MAKE THE FOLLOWING CHANGES TO YOUR CONFERENCE DIRECTORY.

Page 7 and 14. Change the email for Krista Betz from kbetz@mail.win.org  to kbetz@centurytel.net

Page 16, Institutions/Agencies
Blue Springs Terrace, Inc. has new contact information:
Mrs. Deloda A. Hempenius, Terrace Administrator
308 SW 19th Terrace
Blue Springs, MO 64015
816-228-3447 (home)
hempenius@aol.com 
www.bluespringsterrace.org 

Emmaus Homes (Marthasville) delete 2200 Hwy D and change to 11900 Emmaus Drive
Emmaus Homes (St. Charles) delete P.O. Box 220, and change zip code to 63301

Page 18:
Under Parkside Meadows -- delete "James Mennerick, Chaplain".

Page 22, Churches by Name – St. Louis Association
Carondelet UCC – please change Linn to St. Louis

Page 25:
0320 St Johns UCC, Chamois – add FAX 573-763-5728
0420 St Paul UCC change Pastor from Charlotte White to Don Frandsen, Licensed Pastor

Page 26
0590 St Luke UCC, Grand Pass – change address to 1006 McReynolds St., Grand Pass, MO 65339; change phone # to 660-493-2560

page 27
0895 – St. John UCC (Casco) Charles Ackerson is no longer a co-pastor
1060 – Zion UCC (Oakfield) George Sonneborn, co-pastor has been replaced by Bill Schwab
1100 – St. James UCC (Charlotte) change mailing address to 2463 Hollander Rd., Rosebud, MO 63091

Page 28

1168 – Ivanhoe UCC, Raytown has no pastor at this time, please remove Gregory Ferriss
1310 – Carondelet UCC add email address: carondeletucc@sbcglobal.net 

Page 29
1630 – St. Johns UCC, Grand in St. Louis – please change Interim pastor to Starsky Wilson, Pastor

Page 34
Baldwin, Kemery & Steve Pokin – please add Steve’s correct last name
Bock, Gerald – please remove Laverne who is deceased

Page 37
May, Kristy & Michael – please change address to 16842 Emmaus Circle, Marthasville, MO 63357

Page 38
Parnell, Nelson – please remove Betty who is deceased
Patterson, Bob & Millie – change phone number to 352-350-6009
Pope, Deborah – change email to djpope@hotmail.com 
Raitt - Charlene Raitt instead of Char; John Richter e-mail: chapjohn@yahoo.com

Page 40
Wilson, Ann & Harry – correct email address is awilson@firstcongregational.org 
 

 2.  Summer Reading

July 3, 2008

SUMMER READING

The following is a reading list complied from the Eastern Association pastors in their Information Reviews. It is such a rich list that the Eastern Association Committee on Ministry wanted to share it with folks that were looking for some summer reading. In sorting through books, there were new publications and valued books by scholars of some time past. There was fiction and non-fiction and recent biographies. In listing these titles and authors, we hope all of us will benefit from the information shared. So let us widen our knowledge, faith, spirituality or sense of covenant, by taking up the invitation to open a book, and explore ideas that enrich, challenge or penetrate. In so doing, may our hearts and minds be set free to move forward in our Christian journey with an "Aha!"

A Course in Miracles,
Abe Lincoln of Pigeon Creek,
Acts of the Apostles,
American Gospel by Jon Meacham,
American Theocracy by Kevin Phillips,
A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren,
A Thousand Suns,
Atlas Shrugged.

The Bible,
Beyond the Post Modern Mind by Huston Smith,
Bio of Reinhold Niebuhr.

Celtic Spirituality,
Chronicles of Narnia,
Chronicle of Philanthropy,
Commentaries on Revelation (13),
Compact Guide to World Religions, Dean Halverson Edit.
Compact Book of Counseling the Dying and the Grieving by Doug Smith.
Conservatives without Conscience by John Dean.
Credo by Coffin.

Darwin by Niles Eldridge,
Daybreak by Henri Nouwen and other Nouwen books.
Discerning Your Congregations Call by Steinke,
Dying Well by Byock.

Ethics by Dietrich Bonhoeffer,
Exclusion & Embrace by Velf,
Ezekiel's Bones by Bill Kemp

Faith & Politics by John Danforth,
Faith and Poverty by Jim & Kathy McKinnis,
From Jesus to Constantine by Bart O. Ehrman,
Fundamentalism by Malise Ruthven

God and Empire by Crossen,
God's Politics by Jim Wallis,

History of Deaconness Sisters,
Honoring the Body by Stephanie Paulsell.

In Search of Paul by Crossan & Reed.
Islam by Karen Armstrong

John Adams by David McCullough,

Kingdom Ethics by Glen H. Stassen,
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Leading Change in the Congregation by Rendle,
Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor
Listening to the Heartbeat of God

Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick,
Medical Ethics
Meditations on Christian Practice,
Moral Minority by Brooke Allen,
Moral Politics,

Our Endangered Moral Values by Carter,
Overcoming Life's Disappointments by Harold Kushner

Peace with God by Billy Graham,
Plymouth Colony by Eugene Stratton,
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet,
Politics & Jesus by Hendrickson,
Post Modern Parish,
Practicing our Faith by D. Bass,
Prayer: Does it Make a Difference?" Philip Yancey

Raising the Roof by Mann,
Recovering from Losses by H. Norman Wright.
Resolving Ethical Dilemmas,
Revelation: Apocalypse, Then & Now,
Revive Your Mainline Congregation,
Rome's Greatest Defeat by Adrian Murdoch.

Sabbath by Wayne Muller,
Shopping for God by James Twitchell,
State of the Church by Greenhaw,
Steeplejacking by Culver & Dorhauer

Terror in the Name of God by Jessica Stern,
The Burning Tiger,
The Disabled God
The Fully Alive Preacher by Mike Graves,
The Essential Thomas Jefferson
The Faith of a Physicist by John Polkinghome,
The Heart of Christianity by Borg
The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong,
The Language of God by Francis S. Collins
The Passion by Borg & Patterson,
The Physics of Christianity by Frank Tipler.
The Ten Commandments of Character by Joseph Telushkin,
The Ten Offenses by Pat Robertson,
The Shack by Wm. Young,
Transforming Congregational Culture,
Thy Kingdom Come by Randall Balmer
Two Great Truths by David Ray Griffin,
Understanding Iraq by Wm. Folk

What is the Church? Michael Kinnamon,
What's So Great About Christianity? by Dinesh D'Souza
What's Theology Got to do With It? by Anthony Robinson,
Where Darwin meets the Bible by Larry A Witham,
Wisdom of the Lord by Billy Graham
Worship for Vital Congregations by Talitha Arnold
 

 3.  Opportunity to support Mission

July 3, 2008

Purchase Amani products Saturday, July 12 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Bethel UCC in Kansas City is hosting an afternoon for buying Amani products. Amani ya Juu means "higher peace" in Swahili and is a sewing/marketing training project for marginalized women in East and Central Africa. Amani is committed to fair trade and the women who participate learn practical skills to improve their quality of life, and they also experience God's healing. There are a variety of products: purses, jewelry, dolls, backpacks, household decorative items, etc. Nora Windmeyer from St. Luke UCC in Grand Pass will facilitate the presentation. Her nephew Timothy Windmeyer (home church is Hope UCC in Cosby) and his wife Lynn are serving as missionaries in the Sudan and Nairobi, Kenya and Lynn has been active with the Amani organization.

For more information contact Bethel UCC, 4900 NE Parvin Road, Kansas City, MO 64117; or call 816-453-2628
 

 4.  St. Lucas UCC seeking Youth Ministry person

July 3, 2008

St. Lucas United Church of Christ, Sappington, seeks a full-time, highly motivated, energetic team member to develop and lead the congregation’s youth and young adult ministry. This person will be sensitive to issues of youth and young adults, deeply committed to and knowledgeable of the United Church of Christ, experienced in Christian education and mission, and able to motivate people of all ages to equip youth and young adults for life-long Christian leadership.
Questions: Bill Brinkhorst, Search Team Chair, email: bbrink2@charter.net
Resumes may be sent to: Youth Ministries Search Team, St. Lucas United Church of Christ, 11735 Denny Road, St. Louis, MO. 63126. Deadline is July 31, 2008.
 

 5.  Health Care Reform

July 7, 2008

Dear Friends:
I am passing along the following e-mail from Barbara Baylor Health Care Minister with Justice and Witness Ministries regarding Health Care Reform. Many of us are concerned about the ability of all people in our nation to have access to quality health care at affordable prices. Most of us are concerned about the ability of all people to have some form of health care coverage – especially our children. There are suggested resources you can use to begin a conversation about this issue in your congregations.
Jeffrey A. Whitman, Conference Minister
Missouri Mid-South Conference UCC


Many of you are interested in beginning the dialogue on health care reform at your annual conference and association meetings and many of you have asked for resources to assist with this discussion. I would like to share with you a brief synopsis of historic interfaith meeting that was held recently in Cleveland regarding the religious response to health care reform. At the end I have included action steps and resources that could assist you in beginning this dialogue in your area.

Historic interfaith Health Care Reform Event
Defining the religious community’s distinct vision for and role in transforming U. S. health care, an Interfaith Health Care Reform meeting was held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Cleveland, OH. Convened by Faithful Reform in Health Care, over 75 local, state and national leaders began with the shared understanding that 1) health care is a human need, 2) the current system is not working for everyone, and 3) faith communities have a moral imperative to be catalysts in bringing about a health system that is inclusive, just compassionate and sustainable.

The group worked collaboratively to explore opportunities for common voice and action. They identified the values shared by most religious traditions, articulated the role of the faith community in working for health care reform; developed short and long-term action and communication plans; and designed an organizational model to carry the work forward. The shared values on which the work was based included: compassion, community, concern for those who are vulnerable, equitable sharing of resources, and acknowledgement that each person embodies the divine.

The interfaith and multicultural group of clergy, laypersons and health care professionals (representing over 60 organizations from 23 states and Washington, D.C. With Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Unitarian traditions represented, the meeting’s participant list also marked the diversity of faith communities working on this issue. In addition, or country’s racial and ethnic diversity was evident with African-American, Asian American, Caucasian, Latino, Native American, and Pacific Islander attendees.
The following persons attended from the United Church of Christ:
Ms. Barbara T. Baylor, Minister for Health Care Justice, JWM
Ms. Judith Andrews, Council for American Indian Ministries (CAIM)
Ms. Poppy Arford, Bangor Seminary Student
Rev. Edwin Ayala, Christian Activities Council, CT Conference
Mr. Charles Carpenter, United Black Christians
Ms. Eppie Encabo, Pacific Islander Asian American Ministries
Ms. Linda Morgan, UCC Faith Community Nurse Network
Rev. Jerry Paul, Deaconess Foundation
Ms. Ula Sao, Pacific Islander Asian American Ministries

Action and Follow-up
1. Begin to help our congregations and community to re-frame the message on health care from: “Health Care Is A Right” to: “Health Care Is A Human Need.”
2. Assist our congregations in raising awareness about the importance of working for a just health care system – one that includes everyone.
3. The following resources may help you organize forums and discussions:
A. Vision and Voice – A new adult education resource for faith communities wanting to engage in our nation[s dialogue about health care reform. It is available for FREE on the web on the Vision and Voice website. The resource is an interactive series that offers a flexible design for four one to two hour meetings. The sessions are easily led by lay persons with food facilitation skills, regardless of their knowledge of the health care issue. The resource includes a DVD and a Discussion Guide.
www.visionandvoice.org

B. Unnatural Causes – Resource that draws attention to the root causes of health and illness and to help reframe the debate about health in America. Economic and racial inequality are not abstract concepts but hospitalize and kill even more people than cigarettes. The wages and benefits we are paid, the neighborhoods we live in, the schools we attend, our access to resources and even our tax policies are health issues every bit as critical as diet, smoking and exercise. The unequal distribution of these social conditions – and their health consequences – is not natural or inevitable. They are the result of choices that we as a community, as states, and as a nation have made, and can make differently. You can order the DVD and download the discussion guide from the web. www.unnaturalcauses.org

C. Health Care for All: A Curriculum for Churches – This resource was developed by the CT Conference of the UCC with support from the Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut. The resource serves as a guide for congregations to reflect on the current health care system from a faith perspective. The curriculum does not need “expert” in the issues to guide the program. It relies heavily on small-group interaction. To inquire about and/or order this curriculum with DVD, please contact:
The Connecticut Conference of the United Church of Christ, (860) 233-5564.

D. Seeking Justice in Health Care: A Guide for Advocates in Faith Communities. A resource guide developed to give advocates the tools needed to engage responsibly in health care justice education and advocacy. Developed by the Universal Health Care Action Network with input from the faith advisory committee. For more information, please contact Barbara T. Baylor, (216) 736-3708, Email – baylorb@ucc.org  http://www.cleveland.com/living/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/living-0/1213432403262990.xml&coll=2

Barbara T. Baylor, MPH
Minister for Health Care Justice
Justice & Witness Ministries, United Church of Christ
Phone: (216) 736-3708, Fax: (216) 736-3703, Email: baylorb@ucc.org
 

 6.  VBS at St. Philip's UCC, St. Louis

July 7, 2008

Hey, kids! You're invited to a beach party at St. Philip's UCC, 10708 Lavinia, in Concord Village. The Beach Party Vacation Bible School will be held from July 28 - August 1 from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon each day. The cost is $15.00 per child for the week and includes plenty of crafts, snacks, fun and learning. Call the church office at 314-843-5100 for registration forms or more information. Catch the wave and surf with St. Philip’s UCC!
 

 7.  BBQ at Immanuel Congregational, St. Louis

July 7, 2008

2nd Saturday Bar-B-Que on July 12, August 9, & September 13 from 4-7 pm.  Menu: Pork Steaks * Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters * Cole Slaw * Potato Salad * Baked Beans * Hotdogs * Chips * Dessert* Soda.  Cost: Meat, 2 Sides & Dessert $7.00; Meat & 1 Side $5.00; Hotdog & Bag of Chips $2.00; Soda or Dessert $1.00 .  At Immanuel Congregational UCC, 3460 Jamieson Ave, (Jamieson & Marquette) Call: 314-645-8956
 

 8.  Fellowship of UCC Architects 2008 Event

July 8, 2008

The Fellowship of UCC Architects 2008 continuing education program will be held in Minneapolis this coming October 17-19. Information about the program is available on the Conference website: www.mmsucc.org/events/other_events.asp 
Please share this with any architects in your church who might be interested. This information is also available at: http://www.ucc.org/finance/ucc-architects-web-2.pdf 

For answers to questions please contact:  Andrew White whitea@ucc.org 216-736-3833
 

 9.  Chicken dinner at St. Martin's UCC, Dittmer

July 14, 2008

St. Martin’s UCC, Dittmer invites you to their 45th Annual Chicken Supper on August 2nd from 3-8 pm. Adults $8.00, Children $4.00. Menu: Fried Chicken (or Beef) sides, desserts, drinks. Carry- Outs Available. There will also be a Quilt & Basket Raffle with Handmade Quilt, Garden & Wine/Cheese Basket. Tickets $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. The White Elephant/Trinket & Bake Sale is to benefit Neighborhood Houses. Dinner is sponsored by St. Martin’s Women’s Fellowship. Contact the St. Martin’s UCC, Dittmer church office for more information at 636-285-4797, 636-274-7078 or stmartinsdittmer@stmartinsucc.com
 

10.  Sale at Eden's Bookstore

July 14, 2008

The Eden Theological Seminary Bookstore staff has completed taking inventory and the result is five bookshelves full of sale books. Most of the devotional, children's and scholarly books are priced between $1.00 - $9.00.

The U.C.C. 'Desk Calendar and Plan Book: July 2008 - December 2009' has arrived and is available for purchase at the bookstore.

Feel free to come in and browse! The bookstore is located on the first floor of Eden's Luhr Library, and it is open from 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
 

11.  Women's Retreat CD's now available

July 14, 2008

At long last, CD’s containing the photos and songbook from the 2008 MMSUCC Women's Retreat at Camp Mo-Val are ready to be mailed. If your church has ladies who participated in this retreat and you have not previously requested a copy of the CD, please e-mail or call Shirleen Manganelli (Zion UCC, Florissant) at office@zionucc1.org or (314) 741-1590. We would like to keep costs to a minimum by sending one CD to the church address for participants to share.
 

12.  Ice Cream Social at St. Peter's UCC, New Haven

July 14, 2008

St. Peter’s UCC, 607 Maupin Ave, New Haven, will have their annual Ice Cream Social on Saturday, July 19. The menu is: smoked pulled pork, hot turkey, roast beef, baked beans, slaw, German potato salad, home-made pie and home-made ice cream – vanilla, chocolate, strawberry & pineapple. Carry outs are available starting at 11 a.m. Dine in will be held from 4 – 8 p.m. in our fellowship hall. Plates are $9.00 and kids 12 & under are $4.50. We are handicap accessible. If you have questions or need directions contact the church at (573) 237-2182.
 

13.  Up-dated NYE Information

July 14, 2008

If you will be attending National Youth Event 2008, please check out the conference website (www.mmsucc.org) for new and updated information, including a bus schedule and links to an NYE general schedule, "what to bring" list and other info. We have recently received specific bus contact lists, so as I check and work out travel details with bus drivers, some travel information may change slightly. The bus schedule on the conference website will be updated as any new information is received. Do check back for updates! Thanks!

I have also recently been informed that earlier housing information provided to me and posted on the conference website was incorrect. For this, I apologize and pass along apologies from the NYE organizers. Those groups that signed up on the same sheet (or made a special request directly to UT Conferences) will be housed together. Unfortunately, as a conference, I have been told that it will not be possible for Missouri Mid-South to be housed together. Conferences will, however, be meeting each evening to pass along information and close each day together. Regarding housing, if your group did not meet requested adult to youth ratios and have not yet been contacted by UT Conferences, please contact them ASAP to work out housing details.

Leah Atkinson
Acting Conference Coordinator for Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Missouri Mid-South Conference, United Church of Christ
 

14.  New Email address for Shannondale

July 15, 2008

Please make a note in your Email Address Books: the new address for Shannondale is Shannondale@centurytel.net 

Thanks!
 

15.  Out-Door Worship & VBS at First Congregational, Bonne Terre

July 15, 2008

Come celebrate the wonder of God’s Creation! First Congregational Church UCC of Bonne Terre invites you to a special out-door worship experience on Sunday, July 27 at 10am. Come in casual attire, bring a lawn chair and enjoy the songs of the birds, the fresh lilting breeze as all present share God’s word from scripture, favorite hymns from yesterday and today. Sunday, July 27, 10 am, gather under the shepherd window on the Oak Street lawn, Oak and Church Streets , Bonne Terre.

Children of all ages are invited to come to Cactus Canyon Vacation Bible School at First Congregational UCC in Bonne Terre. Starting Monday, July 28 and running each evening through Friday, August 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 each night. Participants will be on the trail with Jesus for the whole week. Each evening will include Bible stories around the campfire, crafts in the bunkhouse, games in the corral, and snacks at the chuckwagon. Special activities will include pony rides, a sleep-out under the stars, and a special cow-hand breakfast the kids will prepare for their folks on Saturday morning. To register or get more information call 573-358-1677.
 

16.  Sacred Conversations to continue at St. Peter's, Washington

July 15, 2008

"Sacred Conversations" to Continue at St. Peter's UCC, Washington

The community is invited to participate in a special forum facilitated by the Institute for Peace and Justice. Kathy McGinnis, who is white, and a colleague, who is African American, will lead a discussion on a documentary filmed by ABC in St. Louis called, "True Colors." This very interesting session will take place at St. Peter's United Church of Christ, 20 E. Fifth Street in Washington, MO on Wednesday, July 23 from 6-8 p.m.

The forum on "True Colors" is just one part of a five-night series of sacred conversations on the subject of race and faith that are open to the public. Each night from 6-8, beginning Sunday, July 20 through Thursday, July 24, will address a particular aspect of the challenges and opportunities that are before us as individuals and as worshiping communities. The Revs. Audrey and John Nourse are the facilitators. For more information, contact Dr. Paul Koch at St. Peter's UCC, 636-239-6176, or pk24601@yahoo.com
 

17.  Fall Boundary Training Opportunities

July 16, 2008

Boundary Training is a requirement for maintaining your standing with the Associations of the Missouri Mid-South Conference, and must be completed every 3 years. Feel free to choose the most convenient time and location. Registration Forms can be found on the Conference Website www.mmsucc.org/events/other_events.asp  or by calling Stephanie in the office at 314-918-2602 or toll free at 877-877-5884 ext. 77602.

St. Louis Association:
- Saturday, October 4, 2008 – 9am-4pm @ Parkway UCC
Parkway UCC - 2841 North Ballas Road, St. Louis, MO 63131

Eastern Association:
- Thursday, September 25, 2008 – 9am-4pm @ St. Peter’s Washington
St. Peter’s UCC - 20 East 5th Street, Washington, MO 63090

Conference PIM Retreat: (2 half day sessions just before and after retreat)
- Monday, September 15, 2008 – 9am-12:30am
- Wednesday, September 17, 2008 – 1pm-4pm
The Resort at Port Arrow Head Lake of the Ozarks

*Lunch NOT included, please bring or be prepared to buy your lunch.
 

18.  Persons In Ministry Retreat

July 16, 2008

By now all authorized pastors and each church should have received a mailing which included a letter from Conference Minister Jeff Whitman encouraging churches to honor their pastors by sending them to the Persons In Ministry Retreat to be held September 15-17, 2008 at The Resort at Port Arrowhead in Lake of the Ozarks. This is a time of learning, joining peers, and relaxing that is so important as a part of your lives.

The registration forms are now available on the Conference Website at www.mmsucc.org/events/PIM_Retreat.asp  as well as a link to The Resort at Port Arrowhead website to make your room reservations. Don’t wait – check it out today!
 

19.  How you can help with flood clean-up efforts

July 16, 2008

Is your church looking for an opportunity to work on a clean-up site following the flooding this spring? There are several sites that are already open in the areas of Ohio, Indiana/Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri and Iowa. To find a site that meets the needs and the abilities of your church group go to www.ucc.org  and look for work sites according to areas affected by the floods. All levels of experience in recovery efforts are welcome and needed. At this time it would be helpful if basic tools could be brought to the site, but as the long term recovery continues, there may be places where tools are available on site. Sleeping, cooking areas, and showers will be provided either on site or within the area. Please see the UCC website for full information. Rev. Stephen Redman, Disaster Relief Coordinator for the Missouri Mid/South Conference of the United Church of Christ. 816-650-3047
 

20.  Nervik bikes 300 miles to raise OCWM for MMSUCC

July 17, 2008

OCWM Opportunity

My name is Clairnel Nervik, and I am pastor of Peace UCC in Hartsburg. The first week of August I am doing a fundraising bike ride in Hawaii. All funds I raise will go to OCWM right here in the Missouri Mid-South Conference.

I will be riding 300 miles around the Big Island of Hawaii, staying in UCC churches on the way. The dozen other participants are from Hawaii, California, and Florida.

It is an exciting time in the Missouri Mid-South Conference as we plan for a future filled with meaningful ministry. Your support will help us to continue current ministries and help fund new opportunities for service.

If you would like to support me on this ride, you can do so in one of 3 ways:
1. Send a check (Made out to Peace UCC) to: Peace UCC, P.O. Box 19, Hartsburg, MO 65039, att: Clairnel Nervik, and put OCWM in the memo section.
2. Send a check to your church for OCWM, and e-mail me at clairneln@hotmail.com  to let me know of your contribution.
3. Send a check directly to the Missouri Mid-South Conference, with OCWM/Clairnel’s ride, in the memo section, and send me an e-mail to let me know of your contribution.

And, of course, you can pray for me and the other riders, during the first week of August.

Thanks for your continuing support of the ministries of our churches in Missouri and throughout the world!

For more information, click on the link below

http://fccpa.org/biketrip/index.htm

Rev. Clairnel Nervik, Peace UCC, Hartsburg, MO
 

21.  Illinois-South Conference seeking Communications Associate

July 17, 2008

SEEKING COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE
The Illinois South Conference of the United Church of Christ is seeking to fill the new position of Communications Associate. The successful applicant will be technologically proficient, skilled in layout and editing, have experience building and maintaining websites, and motivated to serve the churches and ministries in the United Church of Christ. The position description and application form may be accessed through the Illinois South Conference website: http://www.iscucc.org/index.htm
 

22.  Revised NYE Bus Schedule

July 18, 2008

Please note that there is a newly revised Bus Schedule for those folks traveling to NYE which has been posted on the website. This schedule is on the front page of the site at www.mmsucc.org  Please share with anyone you know who plans to attend NYE next week.
 

23.  National Mission Event to be held in Cleveland

July 23, 2008

Dear UCC Friend of Wider Church Ministries,

You are invited to explore and celebrate God’s Global Mission by participating in ¡Missionworks! to be held at the Downtown Cleveland Hilton Garden Inn, 1100 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, Ohio, on October 2-5, 2008.

All friends and members of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) are invited to discover, witness and embrace God’s world at this biennial event.

Thursday, Oct 2 (breakfast and lunch)
A FOCUS (Fellowship of Continuing Understanding and Support) Reunion Day is planned for this mission advocacy network for Global Ministries. Come to reminisce, honor and celebrate FOCUS, hear what FOCUS is about now and discuss what FOCUS can do in the future.

¡MISSIONWORKS!
Thursday/Friday/Saturday, Oct 2 (dinner) – Oct 4 (lunch).
¡Missionworks! blends global culture, learning and fun for growing mission awareness.
You will be inspired by missionaries, area executives, and special guests about:
• Connecting to global mission
• Mission activities for your congregation
• How you can serve

Saturday/Sunday, Oct 4 (dinner) – Oct 5 (noon)
MMI (Ministries & Mission Interpreter) training for those who have a passion for mission and want to share with others in their conferences or regions. Scholarships are available.

Won’t you join this company of mission-minded Christians and be encouraged and strengthened for your ministry? The cost for ¡Missionworks! is $100 (without lodging).

Don’t delay! August 29 is the last date for discounted hotel room reservations! For more information and registration, please click here: http://www.globalministries.org/calendar/missionworks.html  

You are also invited to please pass this email invitation along to others who
• want to come away with a renewed excitement about Global Ministries and also
• discover how to make a difference in the world

For more information about ¡Missionworks! you may contact: Marcy Dory, Program Associate for Mission Education and Interpretation, Wider Church Ministries, 700 Prospect Ave E, Cleveland OH 44115; Toll free: 866-822-8224 extension 3209 or DoryM@ucc.org 
 

24.  Memorial Celebration for Frances Niehaus

July 23, 2008

FRANCES NIEHAUS MEMORIAL/CELEBRATION

There will be a memorial for the late Frances Niehaus, widow of the late Rev. Robert Niehaus on Thursday, July 31, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Zoar UCC in Evansville, Indiana. Mrs. Niehaus died a few weeks ago.
 

25.  Event for Seminary & In Care Students

July 24, 2008

Midwest Regional Seminarian Gathering, October 3 - 5, 2008 at the Church House in Cleveland, Ohio

This gathering is an opportunity for seminary students who are In Care or who will graduate in 2008 to connect in the national setting of the UCC and with one another. The cost is modest, and students will have the chance to tour the national offices, worship together in the Amistad Chapel, meet national staff, review resources, relax, learn, share and grow into a revitalized understanding of your UCC identity. Attached is a brochure with registration form. If you don’t receive the attachment it is available on the Conference website: www.mmsucc.org/events/other_events.asp  or call the conference office.
 

26.  Fall 2008 Curriculum samples now available

July 24, 2008

Good News! The Missouri Mid-South Conference Office has Fall 2008 “Gather Round” curriculum samples for you to preview. We just received these samples from United Church of Christ Resources. The United Church of Christ is working with the Brethren Press/Mennonite Publishing Network on this wonderful, Bible based, Sunday School curriculum. “Gather Round” is available in age groups from Pre-school to Youth. A companion piece for Parents/Caregivers is also available. As parents, we thought this was terrific! For small churches there is the Multiage version which is designed for classes of children from kindergarten to grade six. If you would like to learn more about “Gather Round”, you can go to http://www.gatherround.org 

We also received a sample of Fall 2008 “The Present Word” Adult Bible Study Series. If you have an adult group looking to do Bible Study, this would be a curriculum to consider.

Please contact Stephanie DeLong at stephanie@mmsucc.org  or 314-918-2602, if you would like to preview these materials.
 

27.  Reflections of Mission trip to Rio Viejo at Ivy Chapel, Chesterfield

July 28, 2008

First-hand reflections and slides of two mission trips to Honduras will be the focus of worship at Ivy Chapel UCC on Aug. 10, 10 a.m. Church members assisted with classroom activities and construction projects at Instituto El Rey, a private Christian high school serving the rural poor in the mountains near Rio Viejo. Ivy Chapel UCC is located at 620 North Woods Mill Rd., Chesterfield. For info call 314-434-4991 or 314-991-3811 or email Nancy Litzinger, 314-434-4162; nancywl@sbcglobal.net
 

28.  Over-Night Retreat for men & boys at Camp Mo-Val

July 28, 2008

Please help spread the word about this incredible opportunity for men and boys in your congregation (and possibly you too!)

Missouri Mid-South Conference FATHER-SON, GRANDDAD-GRANDSON, UNCLE-NEPHEW, MENTOR-PROTÉGÉ, BUDDY-BUDDY OVERNIGHT (Men are welcome to come by themselves too)
September 5-6, 2008
Begins Friday at 6:00 through Saturday at 4:00
Camp MoVal - Union, Missouri

REGISTRATION FORM

NAME:_______________________________
CHILD’S NAME(S)_____________________________
Home Address:_________________________________________________________
Phone:____________________
Email address:___________________________
COST: Children 4-8 $19 9-11 $25 Adults 12&up $32 (includes B & L on Saturday)
pool session (2 hours) additional $2.50 per person (if large enough attendance)
Amount included: _________________ check or money order – no cash

Special Needs (dietary, room accessibility)
Request to share a room with: (this will be honored as best we can)____________

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
No pets please
Registration begins at 6:00 pm September 5 2008.
Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or other special needs with your registration. Bring necessary toiletry items including soap, bedding and towels.  PAYMENT: Please make your check payable to: Prince of Peace UCC  Turn in registration to local church representative or mail to:
Bill McFadden
Prince of Peace UCC
4966 Towne South Road
St. Louis, MO 63128

For More information, contact Bill at 314-920-5915 Mrbill5915@yahoo.com.sg  or
Rev. Paul Koch, St. Peters UCC-Washington at 636-221-7065, pk24601@yahoo.com 

Registrations must be in by August 24, 2008

Men and brothers, please be a part of this transforming effort to help us grow together in numbers, spirit & vitality. This is open to all – invite your friends, neighbors and co-workers!!!

Men’s and Boys’ Overnight Schedule

Friday, September 5
6:00pm Check-in / Choose your bunks / Get settled / Reception
7:30 Ice – breakers / Introductions
8:00 Storytelling Bonfire and S’mores!!!
Sharing by Travis Moore on his letter-writing resolution,
as featured in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch
10:00 Optional “Snipe Hunt,” card games in assembly hall

Saturday, September 6
7:45 am Devotional
8:00 Breakfast
9:00 Study led by Travis Moore / Sharing
10:00 Free Time: Fishing, hiking, canoeing, paddle-boating
12:00 Lunch
1:00 Options:
Swimming
Mission Projects – bring appropriate work gear / tools
Free time activities
4:00 Leave for home

Submitted by Rev. Dr. Paul Koch, MDiv, DMin, Senior Pastor St. Peters United Church of Christ
20 E. Fifth Street, Washington, MO 63090-2604  636.239.6176 (office) 636.390.2783 (home) 636.221.7065 (cell)
 

29.  Boundary Training alternative opportunities

July 28, 2008

Alternative Boundaries Training is being offered by the Missouri School of Religion Center for Rural Ministry in the Mid-America Region of the Christian Church (DOC). If you have not participated in Boundary Training in the last 3 years, please give these opportunities you prayerful consideration.

Ozark Lakes Area, Friday, September 26, 2008 9 am – 3 pm at south Street Christian Church, Springfield, MO.
Northwest Area, Saturday, September 27, 2008 9 am – 3 pm, at First Christian Church, Cameron, MO.
Northeast Area, Saturday, October 4, 2008 9 am – 3pm, at First Christian Church in Macon, MO

For a registration form go to our website at: www.mmsucc.org/events/other_events.asp  and scroll down to the bottom item under Boundary Training. You may also contact Missouri School of Religion Center for Rural Ministry in Jefferson City at 1-800-626-5924 or email krystalmsr@earthlink.net 
 

30.  Treasure Boutique & Bakery Sale at St. Martin's, Dittmer

July 28, 2008

St. Martin’s UCC, Dittmer is having a Treasure Boutique & Bakery fundraiser for their Building Roof Fund on Saturday, September 6th at St. Martin’s UCC, 7890 Dittmer Ridge Rd., Dittmer, MO 63023. Booths Open 8am – 4pm (Vendor Set-Up 6:00 am) Bring all your treasures! Crafters & Specialty Vendors welcome (Alcohol & Firearms Prohibited). 6ft x 6ft spaces available, $10.00 each inside & outside. Limited spaces with electric - $20.00 each, inside only. Registration deadline Aug. 30th. No tents or tables provided. “Pop Up” style tents without stakes may be used. Refreshments available

Contact the church office with questions and registration information at 636-285-4797, 636-274-7078 or stmartinsdittmer@stmartinsucc.com 
 

31.  The Parish Paper - July & August editions

July 28, 2008

Last month you should have received the June issue of The Parish Paper, a two page newsletter edited by Herb Miller, Lyle Schaller, and Cynthia Woolever. Each edition will discuss issues, share ideas, or offer insights on an area of parish ministry. The June issue discussed “Teaching Moments” Strengthen Governing Board Meetings. Attached are the July and August issues. July discusses: “Giving to Congregations: Have Patterns Changed?” and August talks about: “How does Church Size Impact Decision-Making?”

Didn’t get the June issue? Don’t know what The Parish Paper is? Here is a little history from Jeff Whitman, Conference Minister: “The mission statement of the Missouri Mid-South Conference calls us as covenant partners to “Strengthening local congregational life for the building up of the whole body of Christ and doing the good works of ministry.” There are a variety of ways that are fulfilling this call in our conference such as Our Church Vitality Initiative, our Growing Ministry Grants, and the work of our Associate Conference Ministers with Pastors, congregations and local pastoral search committees. All of these ministries are made possible through your gifts to Our Churches Wider Mission (OCWM). To that list I am pleased to announce a new program to strengthen and support the work of local congregations – the Parish Paper.”

How you will receive the Parish Paper: The July & August issues are attached to this email as PDF files. Some of you will get it, and some will not have anything attached because your Internet Service Provider (ISP) has blocked this attachment. Therefore, the Parish Paper is also available for you on the Conference Website www.mmsucc.org Just look for the link on the front page called Parish Paper. We will post future editions of the Parish Paper on the website as we get them.

Below are some additional instructions on the use of The Parish Paper:

Our organization's purchase of photocopy rights for The Parish Paper INCLUDES:
1. Permission to provide copies to our staff and the congregations within our constituency in any of the following ways: E-mail, U.S. Mail, newspaper, meetings, training events, and our Website.

2. Permission for each congregation within our constituency to (a) photocopy or electronically distribute for local use as many copies as it needs, (b) post them on its Website, and (c) quote sentences and paragraphs.

Your Congregation does NOT have permission (a) to delete the copyright notice on page 2; (b) to re-write, paraphrase, or change the wording of sentences and paragraphs; or (c) to give ANY THIRD PARTY - other than your staff and constituents - permission to photocopy or reprint (in any quantity, no matter how small, whether for free distribution or for sale).

If your congregation uses a U.S. Post Office Nonprofit Mailing Permit to distribute photocopies with its newsletter or other mailings, most local Post Offices require that every item carry your congregation's name and address. Above The Parish Paper masthead, type your congregation's name, address, and "Photocopied by Permission."
 

32.  Death of Sue Hatch

July 29, 2008

We are saddened to report the death of Sue Hatch, at 3:10 PM on Monday, July 28, 2008 in Hawaii, surrounded by family. Sue was the wife of Dan Hatch, former Associate Conference Minister with special responsibilities to the Eastern Association. They lived in Washington, Missouri during Dan’s five years (1997-2002) with the Missouri Mid-South Conference.

There will be a memorial service for Sue in Hawaii at 5 PM on August 22nd, with visitation before hand, and dinner afterwards. The family request that there be no flowers, and prefer e-mails to telephone calls. They invite those wishing to make a memorial donation in Sue's name to do so to either Doctors Without Borders USA, Inc., 333 7th Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001 ( www.doctorswithoutborders.org ), Sue’s favorite charity, or St. Francis Hospice c/o St. Francis Community Health Services 24 Puiwa Road, Honolulu, HI 96817.

Our prayers are with Dan and his family at this time. If you wish to send an email Dan’s address is: danandsue@hawaii.rr.com  and if you wish to send a card the mailing address is: Dan Hatch, 3358 Emekona Place, Honolulu, HI 96822
 

33.  Emmaus Charity Golf Tournament

July 29, 2008

Emmaus Charity Golf Tournament

Emmaus Homes invites you to join them as they continue to help over 300 Spirited People with developmental disabilities lead Spirited Lives through their 17th Annual Emmaus Charity Golf Tournament at Bear Creek Golf Club in Wentzville, MO on Friday, September 5th. Since the tournament’s inception, they have raised over $300,000 for the men and women of Emmaus. Whether you are an avid golfer or just a fan, you can help support Spirited People Leading Spirited Lives by participating in the tournament as a golfer, tournament sponsor, or advertiser. For registration ($150 per player) or sponsorship information, please contact Gabrielle Martin at 636-534-5214 or by email at marting@emmaushomes.org
 

34.  Annual Church Picnic at Bethany UCC in Berger

July 30, 2008

Bethany United Church of Christ, on Route Z, near Berger will have its annual church picnic on Friday evening, August 8, 2008, beginning at 5 PM. They will be serving their famous homemade ice cream, along with sandwiches, beverages, and homemade pie. There will be musical entertainment and games for children. Cake walk. Women's stand with fresh vegetables, baked goods, and fancy work for sale. Spend the evening in a lovely pastoral setting. Everyone welcomed for food, fun, and fellowship.

For more information call the church at 573-834-5226 or email Joyce Schutt at jschutt@fidmail.com 
 

35.  Ice Cream Social at Ebenezer "Stone" Church, Gerald

July 30, 2008

Ebenezer “Stone” Church holds their Ice Cream Social on Sunday, August 17th starting at 3 pm. There will be homemade Ice Cream, sandwiches (beef, fish & hotdogs), homemade pie, a Country Store, Fancywork and Cake Walk. Ebenezer is located 9 miles southwest of New Haven off Highway Y at 6162 Stone Church Road in Gerald. For more information call the church at 573-437-5639.
 

36.  Florissant Church looking for Christian rock musicians

July 30, 2008

Got Talent?
A Florissant Church is looking for Christian rock music singers, guitar player, keyboardist, sound and screen tech. They will rehearse next on Tuesday, August 5 starting at 8:00 PM. Their play list so far is: Better is One day, Holy and Anointed One, Breathe, Trading my sorrows, Hallelujah (Brown/Doerksen), and Amazing Grace ( some version of to some tune like “In the Jungle” or something.) More soon. If you love these songs – please respond to Pastor Mike Krewson @ mandmkrewson@yahoo.com  (or call 921-3344) soon. If you know musicians – please ask them to be a part of this!
 

37.  Pool Party and Conference Family Picnic

July 30, 2008

POOL PARTY and Conference Family Picnic
Sunday, Aug 17th at Camp Mo-Val

CELEBRATE with your Conference family as we bid farewell to summer with one last picnic!
BRING your lawn chair or picnic blanket, your swimsuit and sunscreen, your favorite lawn game and friends from church! Pack a picnic lunch or pick up something on the way. The grounds will be open from 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., the pool and waterfront (canoes & pedal boats) from 12:30 - 4:00 p.m.